Frequently Asked Questions

Customs Rules & Regulations

We include customs rules and documentation guidelines specific to your destination with your booking confirmation. Regulations may change, so we recommend verifying with your destination country’s consulate to ensure duty-free eligibility and compliance.

You can also find helpful country-specific customs info here:

Customs Country Guide for Overseas moving

Inventory Requirements

Full Packing Service:
Our movers will create a detailed, customs-approved inventory during the packing process.

Self-Packed Moves:
You are responsible for providing a numbered inventory with descriptions and estimated values.

Example:

• #1 – Books ($300)

• #2 – Linens ($250)

• #3 – Dresser ($600)

A template inventory form is included with your booking confirmation. Boxes labeled “Miscellaneous” or without descriptions may be rejected by customs. Requirements may vary by country—check with your sales rep.
 

Shipping Insurance

Available Coverage:

• Full Coverage (All Risk): For shipments professionally packed by movers.

• Total Loss Coverage: For self-packed shipments. Covers catastrophic loss only (fire, theft, or sinking of entire shipment).

To Purchase Insurance:

• Confirm acceptance or declination in your Terms & Conditions.

• Choose your policy type, deductible, and insured value.

• Full coverage requires a matching valued inventory list.

• Insurance must be finalized before pickup. We cannot insure a shipment once it’s been collected.

Important Notes:

• Full coverage is not available for shipments you unload yourself.

• Without added insurance, carrier liability is limited to $0.60 per pound.
   

Payment Terms & Options

• Deposit: 20% required to secure your booking.

• Final Payment: Must be paid before your shipment departs the U.S.

  • FCL Shipments: Invoiced on loading day.

  • LCL Shipments: Invoiced after warehouse intake.

• Payment Methods: Credit card, check, or wire transfer.

  • A 4% convenience fee applies to credit card final payments.

  • Credit card payments require a signed authorization form.

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 Prohibited & Restricted Items

Most countries prohibit or restrict:

• Perishable food

• Plants & seeds

• Certain medications

• Fireworks, ammunition, or weapons (without proper permits)

• Gasoline, lighter fluid, propane tanks

• Cleaning chemicals, bleach, or aerosol cans

Always check with your destination’s consulate for current import restrictions.

What to Know About Shipping Batteries
 

Lithium Batteries Require Special Attention
Shipping lithium batteries (scooters, e-bikes, lawnmowers, etc.) is highly regulated under maritime law.

Typically Allowed:

• Internal batteries under 100Wh (phones, laptops, cameras), if declared and securely packed.

Require Special Handling:
Items over 100Wh (e-scooters, e-bikes, hoverboards, etc.) may require:

• HAZMAT declaration

• IMDG surcharge ($200+)

• Certified trucker + placards ($200–$400)

• Advance review of battery specs

If accepted, these must be:

• Properly labeled

• Disconnected and secured

• Installed in the equipment (not loose)

Not Allowed:

• Spare lithium batteries packed separately

• Damaged or leaking batteries

• Batteries over 100Wh without declaration

Fines & Risks:

• Undeclared hazardous items may result in fines up to $75,000+, shipment refusal, customs seizure, or loss of insurance coverage.

Always notify us before shipping items like scooters, tools, or battery-powered equipment.

Moving with Pets
 

If you're relocating with pets, check your destination’s quarantine, vaccination, and health certificate requirements. Some countries may require quarantine periods. Contact the consulate for specific rules.

Vehicle Importation

Shipping a car? Be aware of potential:

• Import duties

• Required modifications

• Emissions tests

• Registration fees

• Always make sure gas tank is drained less than quarter full 

Rules vary by country—ask us if you’re unsure.
 

Valuable Items & Documentation

For high-value items (jewelry, art, collectibles):

• Secure appraisals for customs

• Consider additional insurance

• Ask us about custom crating and packing options
   

 Local Language & Support

If you're not fluent in the destination’s language, a relocation consultant can help with:

• Customs clearance

• Translations

• Local bureaucratic processes
   

 Cultural Considerations
 

Understanding local etiquette and cultural norms can ease your transition. Research ahead of time to better integrate into your new community.
 

Emergency Contacts

Before moving, collect and save:

• Consulate info

• Emergency services contacts

• Local authority numbers for your destination country
   

 Additional FAQs

How long will my shipment take?

• FCL: 3–12 weeks Depends on location however usually quickest sea transport

• LCL: 1 –5 months  

• Air Freight: 1–3 weeks
  Transit times vary based on route, season, and volume. Ask your shipping coordinator for an estimate.

What happens if my shipment is delayed?

• Contact us—we’ll provide real-time updates and help resolve the issue.

How can I track my shipment?

• We’ll send tracking details once available. You can also reach out to our team for updates.

Are there extra fees I should expect?
Yes. Possible charges include:

• Customs duties & taxes

• Port handling

• Storage (if pickup is delayed)

• Accessorial fees (e.g., stairs above 1st floor, shuttle service for limited access, long carry)

Should I tip the movers?
Tipping is optional but appreciated. It’s a nice way to show gratitude for great service. Tipping Guideline for Overseas moves

? Need Help?
Call us at 1‑888‑238‑0180. We’re here to make your move smooth and stress-free.